Clinical Research Directory

Inclusion Criteria: * Children aged between 3 to 9 years * Presenting with at least one untreated cavitated active Class I carious lesion in a primary mandibular second molar were considered for inclusion. Diagnosis of carious lesions was based on Nyvad's clinical criteria (Level 3), indicating dentinal involvement without pulp exposure or symptoms of irreversible pulpitis, which was confirmed with an intra-oral periapical radiograph. * Only systemically healthy children, as confirmed by medical history, were included. Exclusion Criteria: * Children with irreversible pulpitis, spontaneous pain, periapical abscess, sinus tract, fistula, or tooth mobility were excluded from the study. * Those with special healthcare needs or systemic illnesses Children of whose parents declined consent, were also excluded.